7 June - Abadin

Santa Catalina seminary was the third to be founded in Spain (1583). The adjoining cathedral was  built in the early 13th century. It has Cistercian Romanic styling as well as Gothic and Baroque influences. Inside the cathedral is simply stunning - 15th century murals adorn the walls of the main nave, its choir stalls are 16th century, and the organ is jaw-dropping.  The choir acoustics resonate beautifully. The cathedral also has many chapels ... the Main Chapel has amazing frescos and detail, the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament and the Chapel of the Conception are simply peaceful places to appreciate and give thanks.

So the tranquillity of today's breakfast was in contrast to the steady 740m climb out of town to Abadin, some 18km away. We were blessed with sun, but a stiff cooling breeze reminded us of our Wellington summer training.  Again we saw few pilgrims - only 3 people, a Belgian and German couple. Gontan, the village just before Abadin was bustling, oozing people both in its cafés and market. The treat for the day was our first non - picnic lunch. Cooked fish and salad - just as we had imagined when we planned on doing the coastal camino. Plus we beat the rain again!

Today is day 20 ... 6 days to Santiago de Compostela .... this trip is going way too quick ....